The US defense community addressed climate change by using the National Research Council to study any evidence that could connect climate change, and U.S defense.The study panel would focus on several broad questions, such as: What are the major social and political factors affecting the relationship between climate change and outcomes relevant to U.S. national security? What is the basis for this knowledge and how strong is it? What research and measurement strategies would strengthen the basis for this knowledge? (National Research Council. 2013). I honestly think that with the whole climate change issue, it is putting our troops in danger, and it is creating unstable areas where the troops are.
I dont think that the military would be fully capable in leading the US if they were to reduce the use of fossil fuels. It would b a huge challenge, because the US depends on oil for transportation, and other necessary things.Oil derived products are used in transport (tactical and non-tactical), 500 domestic installations, and battlefield generators to supply electricity for powering communications equipment, heat and air units, charging batteries, and preparing meals (Assistant Secretary of Energy, 2006(Links to an external site.)). Out of all the branches the Air Force is the primary branch that uses petroleum the most. I think that using less fossil fuel will be great and impact the world in a positive manner, but is it really the best idea for our military? We know there are solar panels they will be able use for energy, but when we need to on a mission the quickest thing to do is load up on fuel.
References:
Assistant Secretary of Energy, 2006. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Annual Report to Congress on Federal Government Energy Management Programs, US Department of Energy, 26 September
Climate Change as a National Security Concern.” National Research Council. 2013. Climate and Social Stress: Implications for Security Analysis. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press